Kony2012 NGO admits misleading people
By Timothy Nsubuga
19th March 2012:
Invisible Children men with guns
Invisible Children, the NGO behind the now controversial #Kony2012 video has finally admitted that its film was ‘misleading’ because it created the impression that Uganda is still under a state of war.
In an email exchange with Michael “Otim” Kirkpatrick, a vitriolic critic of the #Kony2012 video, Invisible Children’s Communications Officer Andrew Morgan also admitted that it was unethical for Invisible Children to present the issues the way they did.
“I agree with you, however—leading people to believe that the war is still happening in Uganda is not ethically right. It’s something we’ve been addressing internally, focusing on getting all staff and supporters on the same page in regards to the language they use in their communications.” Andrew Morgan admitted in the email.
However, Invisible Children’s spin-master was also quick to point out that, “Invisible Children Uganda is frequently lauded by local government officials for its professionalism. Considering the way the organization started, the struggles we trudged through, we’re proud of this fact.” said Morgan.
Critics of Invisible Children however remain unconvinced by the NGOs explanation. “This entire thing would be laughable if it wasn’t so serious. Andrew Morgan was the Communication Director for Invisible Children at the time of this email. He admits that the organization was using misleading information regarding war in Uganda.” says Michael “Otim” Kirkpatrick.
Kirkpatrick says the information in the video was at the heart of Invisible Children’s whole strategy to request for donations. In Kirkpatrick’s view, that may amount to fraud. “This organization needs to be investigated and have their assets frozen. People need to start connecting the dots with Invisible Children, Resolve, and Enough to the Pentagon, State Department, and intelligence agencies.” Kirkpatrick said.
Released three weeks ago, the #Kony2012 video sought to mobilise global support for military action to eliminate LRA rebel leader Joseph Kony. END. Please login to www.ugandacorrespondent.com every Monday to read our top stories and anytime mid-week for our news updates.
